If you’re like most people, a new home is probably the largest and most important investment you’ll make in your lifetime. Even if you aren’t a first-time buyer, every real estate purchase is a huge expense, and a basic home inspection helps you ensure you’re getting your money’s worth.

However, this only tells you about the building’s structural integrity and any visible damage caused by Pests. Before you buy a home, you should also get a thorough Pest inspection to check for signs of a bed bug infestation and other hidden dangers.

Here are the 4 main pests to check for:

Rodents – Rats and mice are a major headache for homeowners, and not only because they get into food. They also gnaw on electrical wiring and plastic pipes used in dryers, dishwashers and washing machines. Rodent droppings and bites can also pose a risk to health, safety and hygiene.

Worst of all, you may not be aware of an infestation until it’s too late. Rodents can get into your house through the smallest cracks, and hide in boxes, drawers or even the walls. With 5 to 10 litters a year and a gestation period of 20 days, your home could soon be overrun!

Bed Bugs – These tiny, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood are every homeowner’s nightmare, since you won’t know they’re there till you start waking up with itchy bites and welts. In addition, they’re almost impossible to get rid of without the help of home pest control services.

A bed bug infestation remains even if the previous owner removes their furniture from the house. These pests can hide in nooks and crannies till you move in, but a Pest Inspection can help you locate and prevent home pests such as bed bugs from taking over your new home.

Termites – Wood-boring insects such as termites and carpenter ants attack wood furniture, flooring and structural timber, costing you thousands of dollars in home repairs. As with many other household pests, an infestation will not become obvious until it’s completely out of control.

Pest inspectors are trained to spot signs of WDOs or Wood Destroying Organisms, and they can also help you prevent home pests. The cost of replacing or repairing damaged items can add up tremendously, so it’s best to protect your home and furnishings before this happens!

Fleas – If you have a pet or the previous homeowner did, there could be fleas living in your home. They can hide in carpeting and soft furnishings, and aren’t visible to the naked eye except as tiny specks often mistaken for dirt. Flea eggs usually hatch within 22 days, so the population multiplies quickly.
While fleas usually go after animals and hide in their fur, they will also bite humans. Along with the discomfort and potential health risk of flea bites, there’s also the hygiene factor to consider, from eggs and droppings all over. A professional pest control inspection can help you rid your new home of fleas.

It’s definitely a good idea to get a home inspection before signing the deal on your new property. But, to avoid potential health hazards and damage to your new home later, schedule a complete pest inspection as well!